Airbnb is introducing Icons , a new category of extraordinary experiences hosted by the greatest names in music, film, television, art, sports, and more. Icons let you step into worlds you’ve only ever dreamed of. Drift off in the Up house. Spend the night in the Ferrari Museum. Hang out with Kevin Hart. Today, it is unveiling the first 11 Icons on Airbnb. “Icons take you inside worlds that only existed in your imagination—until now,” said Brian Chesky, Airbnb co-founder and CEO. “As life becomes increasingly digital, we’re focused on bringing more magic into the real world. With Icons, we’ve created the most extraordinary experiences on Earth.” Here are the first 11 Icons we are unveiling: Drift off in the Up house – Sleep inside one of Disney and Pixar’s most iconic homes—and yes, it floats. You’ll explore Carl’s world in this detailed re-creation of his home, complete with more than 8,000 balloons, and located in the scenic red rocks of Abiquiu, New Mexico. Spend the night in the Ferrari Museum – Immerse yourself in the world of racing with a stay at the Ferrari Museum in Maranello, Italy. You’ll sleep on a bed crafted from the same leather as Ferrari seats, take a lap with Scuderia Ferrari ambassador driver Marc Gené, and head to Emilia-Romagna’s premier race as a VIP. Step into X-Men ‘97 – Live like the X-Men as you stay in a 2D animated re-creation of Marvel Animation’s X-Mansion in Westchester, New York. You’ll discover your mutant abilities and even train in the Danger Room. Go VIP with Kevin Hart – Kevin Hart is taking you inside his members-only Coramino Live Lounge for an A-list evening. You’ll join Kevin and his friends in this secret speakeasy, where they’ll treat you to a tequila tasting and live stand-up by the best comedians in the game. Wake up in the Musée d’Orsay – Stay in the Paris art museum’s iconic clock room, which has been transformed into a luxurious bedroom by Mathieu Lehanneur, designer of the Paris 2024 Games torch and cauldron. From the terrace, you’ll witness the historic Opening Ceremony of the Olympic Games along the River Seine. Join a living room session with Doja Cat -Fresh off a tour performing on the world’s biggest stages, Doja is hosting you for a much more intimate experience. You’ll enjoy an unforgettable living room performance from the Grammy-winning artist, including her favourite songs and tracks from her latest album. Stay in Prince’s Purple Rain house – Prince purchased the Minneapolis, Minnesota home featured in the legendary film Purple Rain, but it’s never been available to the public until now. Explore the home and go crazy for rare and special tracks from Prince’s world in an exclusive studio session. Game with Khaby Lame – TikTok sensation Khaby Lame invites you to his hometown of Milan, Italy for an epic, overnight gaming experience. You’ll stay in a one-of-a-kind gaming loft that Khaby designed himself, where you’ll #learnfromkhaby and face off with him in a Fortnite Battle Royale. Go on tour with Feid – Join the reggaeton superstar on his FERXXOCALIPSIS World Tour for an entire week. You’ll join the crew for rehearsals, ride along on the tour bus, and get backstage access for every show. Live like Bollywood star Janhvi Kapoor – Janhvi Kapoor is inviting you into the legendary, never-before-seen Kapoor family home in Chennai, India. From learning her Bollywood beauty secrets to tasting her favourite southern Indian dishes, Janhvi will host you personally on this ultimate overnight stay. Make core memories with Inside Out 2 – In anticipation of the June 14 release of Disney and Pixar’s new movie Inside Out 2, you’re invited to an overnight stay at Headquarters, the control centre of Riley’s emotions. Your host, Joy, will welcome you into her vibrant world to witness the emotions in action and help keep things in balance.

With more than 20,000 thousand Australian Visa’s issued to Irish people in 2023 and many more family and friends taking the opportunity to visit the land down under, it’s no wonder that Sydney, Melbourne and Perth are in Emirates’ top ten list of most popular destinations right now . With hundreds of Australians working with Emirates as cabin crew, we asked Ashleigh Mehmed from Melbourne in Australia to share her top tips and insights for Irish people considering emigrating to or visiting this Southern Hemisphere continent.  Visa requirements: The first step for anyone planning a trip to Australia is to checkout its Department of Home Affairs website for all entry and eligibility requirements. Whether travelling for work or for pleasure, you must have a visa to enter Australia. There are different types of visas so it’s important to apply for the one that matches your plans.  Don’t assume you can work, even part-time, if travelling on holiday or student visa and give yourself plenty of time to make the application. In addition, make sure your passport has a minimum validity of six months. Passport cards will not be accepted cautions Ashleigh.   Climate and weather:   If you’re planning to travel between states, be prepared for the diverse climate of Australia.  You might depart one region in winter and land in another on the same day with the autumn leaves crunching underfoot.  So while Aussies are cosying up with hot cocoa in Melbourne’s cool winter, Brisbane is still soaking up the warmth of late autumn sunshine. And here’s the kicker: just when summer hits Ireland, Australia is bundling up for winter! So, whether you’re chasing summer sun or embracing winter chill, pack according to the weather conditions of your chosen destinations.    Cost of living: Research the cost of living in different Australian cities to manage your budget – and your expectations. The average price of a medium, basic coffee is about $5 across the country2, which is around €3 – not bad value at all.  When it comes to accommodation, the median rental price of a one-bedroom apartment in Sydney3 is $750 – marginally less expensive than Dublin prices. Like Ireland, prices vary considerably between states, cities and town so make sure you consider factors such as accommodation, transport, daily expenses and the cost of going out to help you make an informed decision about not just where you want to live, but where you can comfortably afford to live while still enjoying all that Australia has to offer.    Healthcare and insurance: Ireland and Australia have a reciprocal health care agreement (RHCA) where residents from Ireland who hold a valid visa are eligible for ‘medically necessary’ treatment as a public patient, including both inpatient and outpatient care and subsidised prescription drugs through the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme.  Cultural adaptation: With so many Irish living in Australia, it can be very easy to stay within your comfort zone and seek out familiar faces and accents from home.  And while Ashleigh says she has lots of Irish friends, she encourages them all to embrace the cultural diversity of Australia and to be open to new experiences, and new people.  “Generally speaking, we Aussies are very easy going and get on really well with the Irish, ” says Ashleigh   “We are known for our ‘no worries’ attitude and when travelling, I think part of the fun is meeting new people and visiting incredible places, expanding cultural horizons and social circles.”   Networking and community: While Ashleigh says it’s important to make new connections, there’s equally a lot to be said for building a strong support network by connecting with fellow Irish expatriates and clubs in Australia.  Many Irish discover a new sense of home and community by joining GAA clubs down under.  There’s a comforting familiarity about a GAA Club 10,000 miles away, but also something new and exciting, particularly when playing with the sun on your back.  So now that you are familiar with what to do, Ashleigh has compiled a list of some of the best places to visit and see, whether you’re exploring sunny Sydney or embarking on an adventure in Adelaide there’s something for everyone.  Sydney: The most culturally diverse of all Australian cities. Melbourne is a close second.   It wouldn’t be a trip to Sydney without visiting the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge. Climb the iconic bridge for panoramic views of the city skyline and harbour.  Relax on the golden sands of Bondi Beach or explore the coastal walk from Bondi to Coogee.  Discover Sydney’s cultural landmarks, including the Sydney Opera House, Royal Botanic Garden, and Taronga Zoo.  Melbourne: Wander through the laneways of Melbourne Central Business District to discover hidden cafes, street art, and boutique shops.  Famous for our coffee culture   Drive along The Great Ocean Road: a stunning coastal route that stretches for hours between Torquay (the surf capital of Victoria) and Allansford. The views are breath-taking and there are many famous stops along the way, such as The Twelve Apostles.  See the fairy penguins come out in the evenings at St Kilda beach. Although if you would like a guaranteed sighting, visit Phillip Island (two hours from the CBD) and see the largest little penguin colony in the world venture out into the peninsula each night for free.  Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Queen Victoria Market, the largest open-air market in the Southern Hemisphere.  Catch a game at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) or if sports are not your thing, explore the diverse exhibitions at the National Gallery of Victoria.  Perth: Soak up the sun and relax on the beach. Ashleigh recommends going to Cottesloe or Scarborough, which are two of her favourite spots.  Take a ferry to Rottnest Island to meet the friendly quokkas and enjoy snorkelling in crystal-clear waters.  Explore the historic streets of Fremantle and visit the Fremantle Markets for local crafts and gourmet treats.  Adelaide: For food lovers, explore the Adelaide Central Market for fresh, in season produce and local delights.  To immerse yourself in the lush greenery of Adelaide, head to the Adelaide Botanic Garden for a peaceful retreat.  For those who seek adventure, take a scenic drive to the Adelaide Hills for stunning views and charming villages.  Brisbane: An hour and twenty-minute drive from Brisbane is The Gold Coast. Arguably one of Australia’s biggest tourists / local vacation destinations due to its surf culture, beaches and theme parks. There are many amazing theme parks boasting water slides, thrill rides, movie characters, etc.   For the animal lovers visit the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary to cuddle koalas and hand-feed kangaroos.  For water sport enthusiasts, a day trip to Moreton Island for snorkelling, sandboarding, and dolphin watching is a must.   “Every part of Australia is quite unique and there are endless attractions and experiences awaiting Irish travellers as they seek new adventures abroad,” said Ashleigh.  Getting to Australia is easier than ever before and Emirates operates two flights daily from Dublin to five points across Australia, via Dubai. Travellers flying to Australia with Emirates can enjoy the best experience in the sky with an unmatched culinary experience, regionally inspired multi-course menus developed by a team of award-winning chefs complemented by a wide selection of premium beverages. Customers can sit back and relax with up to 6,500 channels of carefully curated global entertainment content featuring movies, TV shows, music, podcasts, games, audiobooks and more with ice , Emirates’ award-winning inflight entertainment system.  And you might even meet Ashleigh onboard who says she’ll be very happy to offer even more tips about Australia’s hidden gems. www.emirates.com for more

Türkiye /Turkey has launched its newest tourist train route – the Mesopotamia Express ; a sleeper train which stops for detailed sightseeing breaks in the major cities across the Anatolia region (basically, the Asian part of Turkey). The weekly train has a total capacity of 180 passengers, nine sleeping cars, and one dining wagon offering Anatolian cuisine. The two-person cabins include a refrigerator, lighting and heating, a lavatory, and a storage cabinet. Travelling 1,051 kilometres over 24 hours from Ankara to Diyarbakır, the sleeper train passes through Kayseri, Sivas, Malatya, Elazığ, and Bingöl.  The route includes three-hour breaks in Kayseri and Malatya, and a four-hour stop in Elazığ, giving guests time to rest and explore the cities’ unique architecture and delightful local tastes. The historic capital of Cappadocia,  Kayseri  is located in the foothills of Mount Erciyes and has seen several civilisations since the Hittites. In addition to the medieval castle and fortifications in the city centre, visitors can see various Seljuk landmarks, including the Döner Kümbet, the Grand Mosque, and the Gevher Nesibe Madrasa, which houses the Seljuk Civilization Museum. They can also savour the city’s famed street foods, such as “mantı” – a minced meat dumpling topped with garlic yogurt. Malatya  has always been at the crossroads of trade and cultural exchange between Mesopotamia and Anatolia. Arslantepe Mound is registered on the UNESCO World Heritage List. During the break, passengers can see the historical buildings of the city, such as the Old Malatya Ulu Mosque, as well as the city walls can buy handmade copper items at the Coppersmiths’ Bazaar and taste local apricots at the Şire Market. Elazığ  has been a centre of faith, culture, and health for centuries for its location on the trade routes. The castles, bazaars, mosques, and baths adorn this ancient city like silent witnesses of glorious times. The city’s must-see attractions include Harput Castle, the Church of the Virgin Mary, one of Anatolia’s oldest sites of worship, and the historical Harput Grand Mosque. Mesopotamia Express’ final destination,  Diyarbakır  is the heart of Mesopotamian culture. Diyarbakır has seen the formation and development of 33 civilisations. This has resulted in its endless diversity, from architecture to cuisine, from traditional arts to original city life. After having breakfast at the historic Hasan Pasha Inn in the city, visitors can visit the Diyarbakır Walls and Hevsel Gardens Cultural Landscape Area, which is on the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage List. Other city attractions are the Grand Mosque, Prophet Süleyman Mosque, İçkale Archaeology Museum, Zerzevan Castle, and Mithras Temple. The Eğil district stands out with its castle, inns, churches, and mosques, and the On Gözlü Bridge (Dicle Bridge) and Malabadi Bridge. Visitors should also sample the city’s stuffed ribs and burma kadayıf dessert.

Universal Studios Hollywood  announces its first-ever, high-speed outdoor roller coaster “Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift” will join the theme park  family  in 2026. The dynamic new thrill ride, themed to Universal Pictures’ blockbuster film saga,  Fast & Furious,  will elevate the guest experience with innovative and technological achievements never previously employed in a roller coaster. The state-of-the-art ride system is being uniquely designed to immerse guests within the high-speed  Fast & Furious  universe. Highlights will include ground-breaking 360-degree rotation of the individual ride vehicles as they rocket along an elaborate track meticulously constructed with sound reduction technology for a breath-taking, superior experience. These attributions will create a seamless sensation of drifting cars as guests spin in motion at furiously fast speeds. “As a premier entertainment theme park destination with a rich history in immersing guests in incredible rides based on today’s most inspiring movie, television and gaming properties, we are excited to introduce our very first, high-speed outdoor roller coaster,” said Scott Strobl, Executive Vice President & General Manager, Universal Studios Hollywood. “As Universal Studios Hollywood continues to evolve, the arrival of ‘Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift’ will be a powerful game changer that will infuse a new level of thrill into our already dynamic theme park, and we look forward to welcoming guests when it races onto the scene in 2026.” “Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift” will be located on the Upper Lot of Universal Studios Hollywood. Guests will queue up within a large, red brick, garage-style structure before settling into the ride vehicles, modelled after several authentic cars featured in the films, and catapulting along an aerial track that winds its way over parts of the theme park. The “Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift” roller coaster will benefit from Universal Destinations & Experiences’ decades-long expertise in revolutionizing the development of the contemporary roller coaster across its global theme parks. The ride will join Universal Studios Hollywood’s slate of unprecedented ground-breaking attractions, including the interactive land, SUPER NINTENDO WORLD™, featuring the critically-acclaimed “Mario Kart™: Bowser’s Challenge”  ride; “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™”  highly immersive land that features Hogsmeade™ village, “Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey™” and “Flight of the Hippogriff™ rides; “Jurassic World—The Ride” ; Illumination’s award-winning “The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash” and “Despicable Me Minion Mayhem” ; Springfield, U.S.A. and “The Simpsons Ride™” ; “TRANSFORMERS™:  The Ride-3D”  and “Revenge of the Mummy—The Ride.” The new roller coaster will become a marquee ride alongside the theme park’s signature  Studio Tour  attraction, which commemorates 60 years of moviemaking magic this year. Since 1964, the Studio Tour has offered guests a front-row seat to filmmaking magic on an authentic movie and television production studio backlot for an exclusive peek at original film sets that include Jupiter’s Claim from Jordan Peele’s NOPE and Courthouse Square from the Back to the Future films, as well as such experiential attractions as “King Kong 360-3D,” and the eerily realistic “Earthquake—The Big One” simulated natural disaster attraction. The Fast & Furious  film saga is a phenomenon. For more than twenty years, the franchise has stoked passion in an ever-expanding audience and has earned more than $7 billion at the worldwide box office. Universal Pictures’ record-smashing, homegrown  Fast & Furious  films have become the studio’s most profitable and longest-running franchise. Across social media platforms, the fan following for the movies and cast has grown into the biggest of any active franchise.

With Spring in the air, new beginnings hail in Flanders, with longer, warmer days. The reopening of Rubens House with its new experience centre and baroque garden promises to offer visitors a rich cultural experience inspired by the renowned artist’s works. And what better way to celebrate the arrival of summer than with the annual Beer Passion festival in Antwerp, where locals and visitors alike can indulge in the region’s rich brewing tradition. Mechelen’s art-nouveau glass house sounds like a true hidden gem, nestled within the historic setting of a former girl’s boarding school. Its reopening is sure to delight art enthusiasts and history buffs alike. The innovative “floating” cycle path in Hoge Kempen National Park sounds like a unique way to experience the natural beauty of the region. Cycling enthusiasts will surely be eager to explore this new addition to Flanders’ outdoor offerings. And for those with a penchant for history, the reopening of the Last Post ceremony under the Menin Gate in Ypres is a poignant moment, allowing pilgrims to pay their respects and honor the memory of those who sacrificed their lives. With so much to see and do, Flanders offers a rich tapestry of cultural, historical, and natural attractions for visitors to explore. Arts and Heritage:  Rubens House – Opening of the new Experience Centre and Baroque Garden, 30 August 2024, Rubens House, Antwerp The Rubens House, also known as the Rubenhuis, was the residence and workplace of Peter Paul Rubens. On August 30, 2024, the Rubenshuis experience centre and its garden will re-open to the public. The entrance has been relocated, where a new building will serve as the gateway to the Rubens Experience, a beautifully renovated Baroque garden, and new library. The garden now boasts 17,500 plants and flowers that thrive throughout the year and a view of Rubens’s former home. During the ongoing restoration work, the former museum area of Rubens House, which was the artist’s residence, will remain closed until 2030. Winter Garden re-opening29 May 2024 Close to Mechelen lies a hidden gem known as the Winter Garden . This is a unique heritage site that introduces visitors to the grandeur of a former international boarding school for girls. Run by the Ursuline order, this  showpiece is the enchanting art nouveau winter garden dating back to 1900. The magnificent stained-glass dome creates a magical play of light and colour throughout the room.  It displays  morning, day and evening aspects, which are popular themes in Art Nouveau. The glass panes depict teams of plants and animals.In fact, little is known about what prompted the nuns to build such an opulent structure even more intriguing is the fact that nobody knows who designed the Winter Garden- despite its high quality and excellence. Cycling News Terhills Floating Bridge opens June 2024 Hoge kempen National Park, Limburg From June, bike enthusiasts can look forward to a new attraction in Terhills : a S-shaped floating bridge for bikes and pedestrians within the distinctive natural environment of the Hoge Kempen National park. Currently under construction, this steel structure will create a floating structure over the waterway. Visitors will be able to cycle across a floating bridge with some great 360° vistas of the beautiful landscape of the Terhills site, shaped by its history of mining. Gastronomy and Beer Beer Passion Festival21-23 June 2024 Antwerp The ‘Bierpassieweekend’ ( Beer Passion weekend ) is the ideal occasion for beer connoisseurs and zythologists to discover the charms of Antwerp and taste a dazzling array of Belgian beers. The Groenplaats, one of Antwerp’s most stunning squares, hosts about 40 breweries presenting 200 or more beers, and the festival offers visitors the chance to discover the rich palette of flavours in high-quality Belgian beer.

Here are ten family-friendly things to do in Menorca, along with their approximate costs: Visit the beautiful beaches: Spend a day at one of Menorca’s many stunning beaches, such as Cala en Turqueta or Son Bou. Cost: Free. Explore the Ciutadella Old Town: Take a stroll through the charming narrow streets of Ciutadella’s historic centre, admiring the lovely architecture. Cost: Free. Visit the Naveta d’es Tudons: Explore the prehistoric burial site, a fascinating attraction for both kids and adults. Cost: €2 per person. Explore Fort Marlborough: Discover the history of this British-built fortress and enjoy the panoramic views from its walls. Cost: Free. Water activities at the Aqua Center: Enjoy a day of waterslides, pools, and splash zones at this family-friendly water park. Cost: €20 per adult, €15 per child. Horseback riding: Take a family horseback ride through Menorca’s breath-taking countryside. Cost: Prices vary, starting from €25 per person. Visit the Lloc de Menorca zoo: Explore this small yet charming zoo, providing an opportunity to meet local farm animals. Cost: €12 per adult, €8 per child. Boat trip along the coast: Enjoy a relaxing boat trip, offering an opportunity to explore hidden coves and snorkel in crystal-clear waters. Cost: Prices vary, starting from €25 per person. Visit the Museum of Menorca: Learn about the island’s history through its fascinating exhibits, including ancient artifacts and archaeological findings. Cost: €4 per adult, free for children under 14. Explore the Cami de Cavalls: Take a family hike or bike ride along this ancient coastal trail, offering beautiful scenery and stunning views. Cost: Free. Please note that the costs mentioned above are approximate and may vary depending on the season and provider. It’s always recommended to check the latest prices and availability before planning your activities.

I arrived at Dublin airport during the wee hours of a Friday morning, armed with just hand luggage, to meet Travel Times’ Ita Hendrick and take the 6.50am Ryanair flight to Brussels Charleroi Airport. A mere 1 hour, 20 minute hop, with a 2 hour train journey at the other side, to the beautiful, medieval city, Bruges. Bruges truly is a city of a thousand photo opportunities with a warren of winding streets and Hansel and Gretel style architecture. Markt Square is home to the 12th-century belfry which starred in crime caper, ‘In Bruges’. Accommodation and Food We checked into our gorgeous hotel the Aragon Hotel Brugge – Official Website – 4* Hotel Bruges ,which is located in the old centre, just a stone’s throw away from the Square. It has a lovely fresh feel as all the rooms were renovated in 2024. We were lucky to get warm , sunny weather, so Ita’s reservation in Oda – Rooftop Bar in Bruges (odarooftopbar.be) , Bruges’ cool, new rooftop bar was even more perfect a spot than we had hoped. We sampled the signature cocktail,- The Oda ( a very sweet mix of gin, tequila, raspberry, orgeat, and passion fruit) and shared a burrata pizza and mini burgers. Walking Tour The sun kept shining on Saturday morning, so after a continental breakfast in the Aragon Hotel, we opted for a 2.5 hour free walking tour with a company called Legends Tours .The tour began in Markt Square and we made our way through the walkable city, admiring looming buildings; some of which date back to the 9th century, spires, canals (of which there are 42) and bridges. Highlights of the tour included St. Johns Infirmary – one of Europe’s oldest hospitals, where scenes from the classic Audrey Hepburn film, ‘The Nun Story’ are filmed. The Half Moon Brewery is one of the oldest active breweries in the city where visitors can learn about the brewing process and sample their beers but most incredibly, the brewery has a unique beer pipeline that runs underground, connecting to its bottling plant outside the city centre for over 3km! This pipeline, known as the “beer pipeline” or “beer pipe,” was installed to transport the beer from the brewery to the bottling plant without the need for trucks to navigate the narrow streets. After stopping for a quick refreshment (champagne is priced the same as prosecco in many bars in Bruges, so why not?!), we joined a long but fast-moving queue for a canal tour. Canal Tour Priced at €15 per person, the canal tour was a steal. A joyous meander on the water, this option offers a perspective of Bruges, allowing you to admire its beauty from a different angle, taking in the lush greenery and stunning architecture. Belgium is renowned for it’s beer, fries and chocolate. I love the former and Ita the latter, so frankly we were in heaven. The beer glasses are relatively small but the 600 varieties of beer makes up for it. There are more Michelin restaurants per capita than in France, however we skipped the Michelin Star experience in favour of an authentic Bruges restaurant, Restaurant – Verdi Brugge | Restaurant & B&B another find of Ita’s. It’s both a b&b and restaurant and is cosy and brimming with warm Flemish hospitality. We enjoyed rib-eye steaks with those mouth-watering Belgian frites. We both felt that one more day in Bruges would have been optimum. There are museums we would loved to have seen and some terrific shopping opportunities, alas we were booked on the Ryanair out of Charleroi Airport and had to make our way. One issue to note: the shuttle bus to match our flight time was full, so if you are booking a train or bus to Bruges from Charleroi, it may be a good idea to book a return. Ita and I made it to the airport on time, taking a train and a rather hairy taxi journey but that’s a story for another time!

Whether you love her or loathe her, there’s no denying that Taylor Swift has taken the world by storm. While on her global Eras Tour, she released her latest work: The Tortured Poets Department and The Tortured Poets Department: The Anthology, a double album released two hours apart. True to her style, she weaves heartache and longing into her lyrics, mentioning several real-life locations from New York to London. Here, we explore five destinations highlighted in the album: The Black Dog, London “ The Black Dog” is not only the 17th track on the double album but also a London pub where Swifties flocked following the album’s release. In the song, Taylor Swift alludes to someone—speculated to be Joe Alwyn or Matty Healy—frequenting the bar with lyrics like, “And your location, you forgot to turn it off / And so I watch as you walk / Into some bar called The Black Dog.” On the release day, April 19, The Black Dog offered the first 100 customers a free half pint of lager if they quoted a lyric from the song. Since then, the pub’s Instagram following has soared, and they’ve launched merchandise including shirts, totes, hats, and mugs. Fans have also noted the addition of a Taylor Swift-themed ‘Swiftburger’ to the menu. Chelsea Hotel, New York In the title track, “The Tortured Poets Department,” Swift references Manhattan’s iconic Chelsea Hotel, a historic 12-story building known for hosting artists, writers, and socialites since the late 19th century. With lyrics like, “You’re not Dylan Thomas, I’m not Patti Smith / This ain’t the Chelsea Hotel, we’re modern idiots,” Swift suggests their romance is far from legendary, depicting it as immature. The rest of the song delves into her disillusionment with a past relationship, rumoured to be with actor Joe Alwyn. The Lake in Central Park, New York In “The Bolter,” the 29th track on her 31-track double album, Swift references Central Park. She addresses being labelled a ‘bolter,’ someone who gets scared and flees from relationships. She sings about the early, enchanting days of a romance, illustrated by renting rowboats on Central Park Lake, with lyrics like, “When it’s all roses, portrait poses / Central Park Lake in tiny rowboats / What a charming Saturday.” Hampstead Heath, London In her previous album, Lover, Swift sang about walking through Camden Market and Shoreditch. In her latest album, it’s, “So Long, London.” This emotional ballad lists possible reasons that led to the end of a relationship. With the lyrics, “I left all I knew, you left me at the house by the Heath,” she reflects on being left behind by a former lover at Hampstead Heath. Destin, Florida In collaboration with British alternative band Florence + The Machine, “Florida!!!” mentions the city of Destin, known for its stunning white sand beaches, emerald green water, and reputation as the ‘World’s Luckiest Fishing Village.’ The lyrics mention people having to work their whole life “For a time-share down in Destin.”

The Marks and Spencer travel beauty bag has landed! Which means it’s time to start dreaming of holidays, pina colada and coconut scents. The value bag of treats is a top seller each year because it includes the perfect amount of travel-sized haircare, skincare, and fragrances you need for a two-week trip or more. It features some of the best brands Marks and Spencer offers, including REN, Dr. Paw Paw, PIXI, This Works, and more. Now is the perfect time to get one, as it costs just €40 but is valued at an impressive €200. This beauty bag helps you to travel lightly and keep space for more bikinis, sarongs and other essentials. So what is the loot?! The bag contains 12 products—six full-size items and six travel minis . Included are: Fresh Elements Hydrate Overnight Moisture Cream (50ml) Floral Street Arizona Bloom Eau de Parfum (10ml) Supersize REN Ready Steady Glow Daily AHA Tonic (100ml) L’Occitane Verbena Shower Gel (250ml) This Works Perfect Legs Body Butter (200ml) Colour Wow Xtra Large Bombshell Volumizer (50ml) Ultrasun Face SPF50+ (25ml) Clinique Moisture SurgeTM 100H Auto-Replenishing Hydrator (50ml) Dr Paw Paw SPF Lip Balm (8ml) Pixi Lip Lift Max (2.7g) Formula Ultimate Sleep Cream (15ml) Marks and Spencer Discover Sunrise Eau de Toilette (30ml) The bag goes on sale today, May 16th , so ladies get yours while stocks last. The beauty bag itself is a chic mesh number which can be reused long after the products are finished!

Choosing the right outfit for a flight involves balancing comfort, the weather at your destination, and navigating airport security smoothly. Despite various opinions within our team, it’s clear that personal style plays a significant role in these decisions. What one person considers the perfect travel attire might be another’s fashion faux pas. Here we List our Top Suggestions: No Denim! Enduring hours in a confined seat is no time for your stomach to struggle against a rigid denim waistband. Instead opt for trousers with drawstring or elasticated waists for a comfortable yet stylish alternative. Choose designs in lightweight fabrics such as cotton, or consider cosying up in fleece joggers for a long-haul flight. Swap Dungarees for a Matching Set Dungarees might provide a laid-back, cohesive look, but their one-piece design can become a hassle during mid-flight bathroom breaks. The possibility of a strap touching the floor or even the toilet makes them less practical. Instead, consider a matching set, which maintains an effortless, coordinated appearance without the inconvenience of needing to partially undress in the restroom. No Laces or High-Top Converse While trainers, boots, and Birkenstocks are great for vacations, they can be a hassle at the airport since you’ll likely need to remove them during security checks. Trainers require you to stop and tie laces, and wearing Birkenstocks often means awkwardly tiptoeing to avoid dirty feet. Additionally, trainers are impractical on long flights due to foot swelling, making you want to take them off anyway. Instead, pack your trainers or Birkenstocks in your carry-on (use a packing cube with rolled-up socks) and choose a sturdy pair of flat slip-on shoes like ballet flats, mules, or loafers for the flight. Say Goodbye to the Claw Clip for your Flight Claw clips may be a stylish and easy way to pull your hair up, but they can be incredibly uncomfortable when you lean back against a headrest. For maximum comfort, opt for a high, loose bun secured with a soft scrunchie. Dark Colours Instead of White Spills and stains are almost inevitable during a flight, whether it’s a coffee mishap or a squished chocolate. To avoid ruining your outfit, steer clear of bright whites and dry-clean-only garments. Instead, choose darker colours and easy-to-wash fabrics for a more practical and travel-friendly wardrobe. Moisturise Instead of Makeup While a bit of mascara or blush is fine, wearing a full face of foundation on a flight can be detrimental due to the dehydrating effects of recirculated air. If you arrive at the airport with heavy makeup, it’s best to remove it with a cleanser and then apply moisturiser and sunscreen before boarding. Don’t forget to pack travel sized cosmetics and creams, such as those in the Marks and Spencer summer bag. Reviewed here: The Marks and Spencer €40 Summer Beauty Bag, Which is Perfect for Travelling is Back and Worth €200 – Travel Times

Summer holidays and soaring temperatures are fast approaching, and Mars Ireland wants to help dog-owners – new and old – to travel safely with their pets in the summer months. Keep the following expert tips and advice in mind and you can keep your four-legged friend cool and comfortable on the go! Katrine Grytter, Corporate Affairs Director, Mars Multisales North Europe says: “Whether you’re holidaying in the city or on the coast, our goal is for pets to enjoy the summer holidays just as much as their owners.  The sunny and warm summer days are lovely, but can pose some challenges for our four-legged friends. A few important tips include protecting your dog from extreme heat, never leaving your dog in the car alone and making sure your dog is on a leash near hot barbecues or outdoor grills.” From hydration hacks to staying sun-smart, our vet-approved tips will ensure that both you and your dog can enjoy summer trips without breaking a sweat. Dog guide for the summer Ensure hydration and shade.  Make sure your dog has fresh water to drink. Be sun-smart and stay in the shade – this applies to both humans and animals! This helps avoid your dog overheating and suffering a heat stroke. Avoid hot pavement.  Paved streets can get really hot in summer, and may burn your pet’s paws. Try to walk your dog on the grass or go out for walks when the temperature is cooler. Protect your dog against insect bites.  Use insect repellent to protect your dog against insects and tics. Check your dog for tics regularly, and remove them as soon as you spot them. Don’t leave your dog alone in the car.  Never leave your dog in the car alone in summer – even with windows open. The inside temperature of a car can rise quickly which can lead to a heat stroke even death. Exercise and activities.  You should always make sure your dog gets enough exercise, but in the summer make sure to avoid the hottest times of the day. Mornings and evenings are best for walks and play. Cooling off.  In case it gets really warm, make sure your dog can cool off by paddling in a pool or a lake – or give your dog a shower in the garden with a garden hose. If you take your dog to the beach or lakeside, take care not to let your dog access waters affected with algal bloom. In certain cases, algal blooms and related scums can be harmful to dogs and other animals. Even small amounts can make your dog really sick. Also, consider placing some ice packs under a blanket in their bed so they can cool off inside. Protect your dog from sunburn.  Yes, even dogs can get sunburn. Take care to protect sensitive areas such as the nose and ears. The best way is to avoid exposure to strong, direct sunlight. Keep an eye on your pet outdoors.  Summer is for picnics and BBQs, but keep watch over your dog around them – some food items can be harmful or even lethal to your dog, and hot BBQs can cause burns. Stay vigilant.  Keep an extra eye on your dog in the summer, especially if your pet seems tired or shows signs of heat stress. Contact your vet if needed. Plan your travels.  If you’re planning to take your dog abroad, make sure the dog has all the necessary vaccinations. Research your mode of transport and destination to ensure you know all the rules and regulations that apply to dogs. Extra tip:  Look for pet-friendly hotels, restaurants and cafes when travelling with your dog. CESAR®, part of the Mars family of brands, has partnered with TripAdvisor to introduce a new category in the annual Travellers’ Choice Hotel Awards.  Best Pet-Friendly Hotels  reflect consumer demand and recent travel trends, and award hotels where furry friends are given the same attention and care as their owners. See the world’s top 25 Best of the Best Pet-Friendly Hotels  here .

Waiting for a bus wouldn’t be nearly as tedious if you could lounge on a comfy sofa. Surprisingly, in northern Thailand, there’s a bus stop where travellers can relax under a woven roof while taking in views of lush paddy fields. In Konagi, Japan, passengers can wait in a watermelon-shaped shelter inspired by Cinderella’s iconic pumpkin carriage. In the Shetlands, you’ll find a bus stop designed like a living room, complete with an armchair and a coffee table. This isn’t the only extraordinary bus shelter out there – around the globe, there are various whimsical stops that make waiting for public transport a unique experience. For instance, in Unst, home to the UK’s northernmost bus shelter, passengers can enjoy a quirky setup featuring a writing desk, a selection of books, a cosy throw, and even a television. Some bus stops may sacrifice comfort, but they compensate with striking designs, such as the giant robot-shaped shelter in Russia. A dreamy bus stop, located on the small island of Shodoshima, was designed by Japanese architect Yo Shimada. Overlooking a beautiful green valley, it is designed to look like water lilies on a pond, with the pads of these lilies made of 90 steel discs. In California, the City of Ventura’s Public Art Program, in collaboration with the Department of Public Works, commissioned a new bus shelter in 2002. American architect Dennis Oppenheim designed Bus-Home, a concrete and metal structure representing a bus that transforms into a house.